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How New Energy Regulations Impact Reflector Lamps

By Craig DiLouie, LC

DOE Reflector Lamp Regulations

LED replacement lamps accent merchandise in a furniture store.
Photo by Shannon Creeden, courtesy of OSRAM SYLVANIA

The Department of Energy (DOE)’s new energy standards for incandescent reflector lamps – i.e., light bulbs with an integrated reflector focusing the light into a concentrated beam pattern—went into effect on July 14, 2012. The legislation effectively eliminated a majority of lamps from the market.

The new legislation affects major reflector lamp types including PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, BR30, ER30, BR40 R20 or ER40. The legislation also covers lamps with the following criteria:

  • A wattage of between 40 watts to 205 watts
  • A diameter larger than 2.5 inches
  • Operating voltage of 120V (standard) or 130V (long-life bulbs)
  • Standard or modified color output

Most of the lamps affected by the regulations do not comply with them and will be eliminated.

So, what choices will consumers have after July 14, 2012? First, consumers should know the exceptions, which are expected to remain in effect until at least December 31, 2014. These include the following popular lamps used in residential recessed and downlighting applications:

  • <50W ER30, BR30, BR40 and ER40
  • 65W BR30, BR40 and ER40 lamps
  • <45W R20 lamps

Otherwise, consumers will need to switch to more energy-efficient reflector lamps that fit the same sockets. Options include infrared-coated halogen, CFLs and LED replacement lamps. Infrared-coated halogen lamps are most similar to incandescent reflector lamps in terms of performance and dimming system compatibility, while CFLs are best for highly efficient floodlighting (very wide beam pattern) that does not require easy dimming or high color quality.

LED replacement lamps have come a long way in terms of performance and use 70-80% less energy than competitive halogen lamps. But, since LED technology is still relatively new, these lamps typically cost much more than their traditional counterparts. Consumers should consider compatibility with existing dimmers and light fixtures, as well as lamp performance. Look for LED products with the ENERGY STAR mark on the label.

What You Need To Know About New Energy Regulations Impact On Reflector Lamps:

  • Efficiency regulations are targeting reflector lamps (with key exceptions)
  • Most incandescent and halogen lamps are being eliminated started July 14, 2012
  • Some halogen lamps will be available offering higher efficiency
  • Other choices include LED and compact fluorescent

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